From August 1949, the export of Volkswagen cars began, the Beetle was more luxurious for the export market. Chrome bumpers are standard on all export models. For the German market, it was still possible to order a standard version with the bumper painted in the body colour. Until September 1952, all Beetles had the same bumpers, after which the bumper ribs disappeared. For a number of countries such as America, protective bumper supports have been installed to meet the more stringent safety requirements that apply in these countries.
The bumpers up to 9.1952 are of a very high quality with a very good chrome layer. The models after 9.1952 are available in two qualities, a light B quality with a chrome layer that you will need to maintain at all times and a heavier A quality with a better chrome layer. If you want to be assured of a bumper that never rust again and is of a quality superior to both mentioned qualities, then choose chrome stainless steel bumpers listed under the alternatives tab.
Note: An improved chrome layer does not mean that this bumper cannot rust, this model should also be well maintained. Make it a habit to dry your bumpers after each ride in the rain, if you don't, rust will set in. Warranty on rusting is out of the question, if you do not want to suffer from this then let the choice fall on stainless steel bumpers.
The back of the bumpers until 9.1952 is treated with a high quality two-component paint where you have nothing to do, the models after 9.1952 are equipped with a corrosion-resistant layer that serves as a base for a final paint layer to apply.
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